Mexico City — President Claudia Sheinbaum has ordered the construction of metal barriers surrounding the National Palace, the official seat of the country’s executive branch, in anticipation of protests over the administration’s handling of escalating cartel violence. The move comes amid growing public frustration following the November 3, 2025, assassination of Michoacán mayor Elías Manzo during Day of the Dead festivities, highlighting concerns over security and political stability.

The barriers are intended to provide additional protection to the presidential complex against demonstrators, who are rallying to express outrage at what critics describe as the government’s “inaction” in combating organized crime. Local authorities confirmed that the wall will supplement existing security measures, including increased police presence and restricted access to surrounding streets.

Sheinbaum’s administration has faced intensified scrutiny in recent weeks as several high-profile attacks on political figures have sparked national concern. Demonstrators argue that the government’s response has been insufficient to prevent cartel-related violence from reaching elected officials, local communities, and ordinary citizens.

Security experts note that while the barriers may provide temporary protection for the National Palace, the broader challenge of organized crime and public safety remains unresolved. Human rights groups have urged the government to balance security measures with the right to peaceful protest.

As the nation watches, authorities in Mexico City are coordinating with federal and local law enforcement to manage upcoming demonstrations, emphasizing the need to protect both government institutions and citizen participants. The fortified National Palace stands as a tangible symbol of the administration’s response to a volatile political climate and rising public demands for action against organized crime.